Menendez Fears Scrutiny

Steve Adubato described Bob Menendez as a great debater and extremely articulate. Then why did Menendez decline to debate Tom Kean on “Meet the Press” and opt instead for two locally hosted debates to be aired at 8 am on consecutive Sundays in October? The answer in a word is fear.

Menendez is afraid to face a questioner that isn’t totally in his corner, as opposed to the usual cheerleaders from the local press he’s grown accustomed to tossing him softball questions. He’s afraid to debate the issues and have his far left agenda exposed to a larger voting audience. He’s terrified his unethical, if not criminal, behavior will not be glossed over and excused in a national venue. He knows the stories he’s told surrounding his deal with a nonprofit agency will be proven to be out and out lies.

"We are turning down 'Meet the Press' so that we can focus on local affiliates, local reporters and appearances before New Jersey voters," [Menendez] spokesman Matt Miller said.

That quote speaks volumes about Menendez and the local press.